Summer Rules 2022 - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District

Page created by Adrian Meyer
 
CONTINUE READING
Summer Rules 2022 - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District
Lake Minnetonka
Summer Rules

                                                                                             SM
2022

                                                       Enjoy the Lake
                                                       Preserve the Lake
                                                       Share the Lake
                                                       Safely & Responsibly

Lake Minnetonka Conservation District • 5341 Maywood Road, Suite 200 • Mound, MN 55364 • lmcd.org
Summer Rules 2022 - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District
Lake Minnetonka Summer Rules 2022

  Table of Contents
  Lake Minnetonka & the Conservation District (LMCD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  1

  Quiet Water Areas, Slow Areas, Public Accesses, Toilets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  2-3

  Health & Safety.............................................................................................................................................4

  Top Ten Summer Violations.....................................................................................................................5

  Unique Regulations, Wastewater Discharge......................................................................................6

  Towing & Nonmotorized Watercraft Safety........................................................................................7

  Watercraft Operator Age & Personal Watercraft Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

  General Safety Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

  Navigation & Rules of the Road. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13

  Other Safety, Courtesy, & Nuisances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15

  Help Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17

  Resources & Contacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover

 This brochure contains a summary of rules of conduct for Lake Minnetonka. Since Lake Minnetonka is
 one of the busiest lakes, certain regulations are in place to help protect the Lake and all those who use it.
 More information about applicable laws can be found by contacting the State of Minnesota Department
 of Natural Resources (MN DNR), Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office Water Patrol, and the Lake Minnetonka
 Conservation District (LMCD) and its member cities. Thank you to all the agencies and volunteers that help
 make the lake fun and safe. Thank you for doing your part in these protection efforts. Have a safe and
 enjoyable summer!

                                   Lake Minnetonka Conservation District (LMCD)
                              Office 952-745-0789 lmcd.org email: lmcd@lmcd.org
                               5341 Maywood Road, Suite 200 • Mound, MN 55364

Lake Minnetonka Summer Rules 2020
Summer Rules 2022 - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District
Lake Minnetonka Conservation District

                                              New Lake Resources Online
             SM
                                                Find lake maps, lake amenities (gas,
                                               bathrooms, etc.), beaches, safety tips,
                                                   events, and more at lmcd.org
OUR MISSION
For more than 50 years, the Lake
Minnetonka Conservation District
(LMCD) has been managing the use
of Lake Minnetonka in its mission
to preserve and enhance the “Lake
Minnetonka experience.”
                                              Variety of photos for purchase at lmcd.org
The (LMCD) brings together 14
different cities, two counties, and
many state and local agencies to
protect, preserve and enhance                DID YOU KNOW?
Lake Minnetonka’s environment,               Lake Minnetonka is known for its:
economy and vitality. We are
one, uniform, coordinating body                •   125 miles of shoreline
that cares for and regulates one               •   14,043 acres of surface area—the
of Minnesota’s most important                      Ninth largest lake in Minnesota
resources in a way that is consistent
across all jurisdictions, representing         •   42 bays/named bodies of water
all stakeholders. Lake Minnetonka              •   Deepest bay of 113 feet (Crystal Bay)
is a unique asset requiring unique             •   30-foot mean water depth
governance.
                                               •   39 percent of the lake has a water
Some services such as emergency                    depth of less than 15 feet
response, solar lights, boater                 •   Vibrant community, including 14 cities
safety education, vegetation
management, and more are supported                 surrounding the Lake
by the generous contributions of lake          •   Sacred indigenous areas, featured
enthusiasts through the LMCD SAVE                  in Dakota legends
the LAKE Fund. Lake Minnetonka
is a highly valued year-round asset            •   Dakota name of “Minn-ni-tanka,”
with vibrant aesthetic, recreational,              meaning “Big Water”
commercial and natural qualities.              •   Located within the Minnehaha Creek
The LMCD works to ensure these
qualities and values will be protected             Watershed
and preserved not just today, but for          •   Abundance of nature, including
generations to come.                               regional parks, islands and trails
                                               •Numerous sightings of “Lou,” a
                                                legendary sturgeon in-excess of
                                             		 10 feet in length (per local folklore)
      Visit lmcd.org and join us on
                                               •   First known “Electric-lit” inland
     Facebook and Twitter for Lake
                                                   steamboat in the US (1881)
  Minnetonka information and updates.

                                         1                                             lmcd.org
Summer Rules 2022 - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District
North Arm/Hendrickson Access
                                                           (Henn Cty)
                                                                                                       Maxwell (MN DNR)
                                                                                                                                                                         SM

                                                                                                                      ORONO
                                                                                                                                                         WAYZATA

                                                               MOUND                                                                                                 Wayzata
                                                  Cooks                                                                                                              (City)
                                     Halsted      (City)                          SPRING PARK

Lake Minnetonka Summer Rules 2022
                                     (City)                                           Spring Park      MINNETONKA
                                                                                         (Henn Cty)       BEACH                            WOODLAND

                                                                                                                                                          Grays

2
                                                                                                                                                  (City/MN DNR)

                                                                 •
                                                                                                                                             DEEPHAVEN
                                    MINNETRISTA                                                        TONKA
                                                                  Phelps                                BAY
                                     Lake Minnetonka              (City)                                                        Carsons
                                     Regional Park                                                                                (City)
                                     (Three Rivers                                                              GREENWOOD                            MINNETONKA
                                     Park District)                               SHOREWOOD

                                                       VICTORIA                                        EXCELSIOR
                                     KEY
                                                                                                                          QUIET WATER / SLOW AREAS
                                            Public Access/Boat Launch                                                     Proceed at minimum wake along shorelines and
                                                                                                                          in all areas as indicated on map
                                            Public toilet facilities indicated on map.
                                                                                                                                   Slow Areas (150 ft from shore, docks, etc.)
                                            See lmcd.org for business facilities and additional lake
                                                                                                                                                                                 Quiet Water, Slow Areas, Public Accesses, Toilets

                                            amenities.                                                                            Quiet Waters
Summer Rules 2022 - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District
Speed Limits & Quiet Water Locations

MAXIMUM WATERCRAFT SPEED LIMITS
                                                                         AT ALL TIMES
                                                                          Speed Limit
                                                                            5 mph
                                                                            Within
                                                                  • 150 feet of the shore;
                                                                    dock structure–except
                                                                    where a person is being
                                                                    towed; of an authorized
         DAYTIME                         NIGHTTIME                  bathing area, swimmer,
        Speed Limit                      Speed Limit                scuba diver’s flag,
         40 mph                           20 mph                    anchored craft or structure
                                                                  • 300 feet for PWCs

LAKE MINNETONKA QUIET WATER AREA LOCATIONS
ENTIRE BAYS
   Carsons Bay            Grays Bay                                 KEY DEFINITIONS
   Emerald Lake           From 4 p.m. Fridays through
                          11:59 p.m. Sundays and all       Quiet Water Areas
   Libbs Lake
                                                           Established areas where
   St. Louis Bay          day on holidays
                                                           motor-operated watercraft (including
   		                                                      waterborne aircraft) cannot be
PARTIAL BAYS                                               operated in excess of 5 mph or at a
   Black Lake–north side                                   speed that results in more than a
   Coffee Cove–east of a line from Fagerness Point to      minimum wake.” Designated QWAs
		 Park Lane                                               are delineated by waterway markers.
   Excelsior Bay–south end
                                                           Watercraft
   Harrisons Bay–north of Seton channel area               Any vessel, boat, sailboat, canoe, raft,
   Lower Lake North-north side of Big Island/Cruiser’s     barge, paddleboard, sailboard, or
       Cove                                                any similar device used or usable for
   Maxwell Bay–south shore from Noerenberg                 carrying and transporting persons on
		 Bridge to Boy Scout Bridge and Noerenberg Inlet         the Lake.
   St. Albans Bay–southwest corner
                                                           Minimum Wake
   Wayzata Bay–southeast corner near Hwy 101
                                                           The wave moving out from a
		Causeway                                                 watercraft and trailing in a widening
CHANNEL AREAS                                              ‘V’ of insufficient size to affect other
   All channels between bays                               watercraft or be detrimental to the
                                                           shoreline.
   Channels between Black/Emerald/Seton Lakes
   Echo and Lafayette Bays–west end of Big                 Daytime
		 lsland by West Point                                    One-half hour before sunrise to one-
   Lower Lake North–west side, northwest of                half hour after sunset—except when
		 Huntington Point and Arcola Bridge                      weather or other conditions do not
   Lower Lake North and Lafayette Bay–south                provide sufficient light to see people
		 of Huntington Point                                     or watercraft at a distance of
                                                           500 feet.
   Wayzata Bay–south side, north of Cedar Point
		 east of Huntington Point

                                              3                                          lmcd.org
Summer Rules 2022 - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District
HEALTH & SAFETY AT THE LAKE
             SM

OWN YOUR WAKE-- FOR EVERYONE’S SAKE
Wakes present dangers to lake users and can damage
property. Therefore, it is especially important that boaters be
aware of their wakes and how it impacts the shorelines, other
people, and the lake.

Under Minnesota law, the damage your wake causes is treated the same as damage caused
by an actual collision. You may also be held personally liable for injuries or damage due to
your wake.

Be aware of your environment and what’s going on around you to prevent injuries or
damage to the lake – this applies to everyone on and around the water.

Observe minimum wake zones. Further, if your wake is hitting the shoreline, other
watercraft, or docks, move farther away or reduce your wake.

Please respect the lake and rights of others so everyone can enjoy their time on the
water – keep the noise down, be courteous to other boaters, and show consideration to all
recreationists on and around the water. Be extra aware of your wakes when operating near
shore or when water levels are higher than usual. More information about reducing safety
hazards and environmental damage is available at lmcd.org or mndnr.gov.

STAYING HEALTHY ON THE LAKE
MDH, Hennepin County, and the CDC offer some tips that everyone can take to minimize
the risk of illness while enjoying the water and to keep the lake healthy for everyone. More
information is available at health.state.mn.us.

Minimize the risk of illness                       Help keep the lake healthy for everyone
 • Don’t swallow the water                          • Stay out of the water if you have diarrhea
 • Shower after swimming                            • Shower before swimming
 • Avoid swimming after a rain event                • Don’t go to the bathroom in the water
 • Avoid swimming near discharge pipes              • Take frequent bathroom breaks
 • Avoid swimming if you see a blue-green           • Change diapers frequently and away from
   algal bloom                                        the water
 • Wash your hands before eating                    • Dispose of trash, animal waste, raw meat
                                                      juices, and boat waste properly

                                       Please follow any applicable State/Governor’s Executive
                                            orders regarding COVID-19 and any guidance.

  Lake Minnetonka Summer Rules 2022            4
Summer Rules 2022 - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District
TOP TEN SUMMER VIOLATIONS
The following are the most common boating violations observed by HCSO Water Patrol. Be mindful
of the rules and use common sense so everyone can have a safe and enjoyable time on the lake.

1         LIFE JACKETS & THROWABLES
          One coast guard approved life jacket must be readily available for each person on board
          the watercraft. Watercraft measuring 16 or longer must also have a throwable flotation
          device. Children below the age of 10 must wear a life jacket while on a watercraft that
          is underway.

2         BOATING UNDER THE INFLUENCE
          Boating while under the influence of alcohol, or any other controlled or illegal
          substance.

3         FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
          Boats with enclosed fuel tanks must have ventilation and fire extinguishers.

4
          REGISTRATION
          All motorized watercraft and unmotorized watercraft over 10 feet in length must be
          registered by the Department of Natural Resources.

5
          RIDING ON GUNWALES OR DECKING
          It is illegal to ride or sit on, or operate a motorboat while someone is riding or sitting
          on the gunwale, bow, transom, decking over the bow, side or stern while underway
          (unless it is equipped with an adequate railing).

6         OPERATING PERSONAL WATERCRAFT AFTER HOURS
          Personal watercraft may only be operated from 9:30 a.m. until one hour before sunset,
          and no longer than 30 consecutive minutes in a single area.

7
          QUIET WATERS/Minimum Wake Zones
          Motor-operated watercraft (including waterborne aircraft) cannot be operated in
          excess of 5 mph or at a speed that results in more than a minimum wake in designated
          quiet water areas. See the summer rules brochure for a map of locations.

8         TOWING OBSERVER
          In addition to the watercraft operator, an observer (not a rear-facing mirror) is required
          to continuously observe the person(s) being towed. The observer must be at least 12
          years old and able to communicate with the driver.

9         NAVIGATIONAL LIGHTS
          Proper navigational lights, including a red light to port, a green light to starboard, and
          a white light to stern, must be displayed when boating after sunset and before sunrise.

10        SPEED LIMITS
          The daytime speed limit is 40 mph; the nighttime speed limit is 20 mph; the speed limit
          for Quiet Water Areas or within 150 of shoreline, docks, and swimmers is 5 mph.

                                                5                                       lmcd.org
Summer Rules 2022 - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District
Unique Regulations & Safety

             SM                                 UNIQUE LAKE REGULATIONS
BIG ISLAND PUBLIC SAFETY LANES
  Public Safety Lanes are installed at the north end of Big Island to provide better access
  by the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office for emergency purposes. Buoys delineate these
  lanes and extend 600 feet from shore (visual reference when high water declaration in
  effect). Watercraft may not be anchored in these lanes, but may use for traveling.
BOW FISHING
  Bowfishing is prohibited one half hour after sunset to sunrise, and from
  November 15th through May 1st. Bow fishing is also prohibited in designated areas
  and during specific dates and times. View the LMCD code for details.
SPECIAL “HIGH-WATER” DECLARATION
  The LMCD may declare “High Water” when lake water levels reach 930.00 feet NGVD for
  a certain number of days or reach 930.25 feet. When “High Water” is declared, minimum
  wake restrictions are implemented for user safety and shoreline protection. During
  “High Water,” watercraft must maintain minimum wake within 600 ft from shore for
  some bays and entirely for other bays, or otherwise directed. The Ordinary High Water
  level is 929.4 ft. Visit minnehahacreek.org or @graysbaydam for the latest water
  levels. Updates will be provided at lmcd.org.

             WASTEWATER DISCHARGE REQUIREMENTS

MARINE TOILETS & WASTEWATER DISCHARGE
To prevent illnesses from the accidental or intentional discharge of
sewage into the lake from watercraft, any watercraft operating on
Lake Minnetonka must meet the following requirements:
• Macerater/grinder pumps must be removed, and,
• Discharge valves (“Y-valves”) must be locked.
If the watercraft has been re-piped to satisfy regulations on other waters, you may be in
compliance.

Monitoring & Reporting
All boaters on Lake Minnetonka must comply with the ordinance. Lake service providers
who launch watercraft or provide pumping services are required to report to the LMCD any
situations where marine toilets do not comply with regulations and may not launch any
watercraft in violation.
Penalty for Violating Ordinance
Any person launching a watercraft equipped with a marine toilet that is not following the
ordinance is subject to a petty misdemeanor.

  The LMCD Code and links to applicable state laws can be found on the LMCD website.

  Lake Minnetonka Summer Rules 2022                      6
Summer Rules 2022 - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District
Towing & Nonmotorized Watercraft Safety

TOWING (SKIING, WAKEBOARDING, WAKESURFING...)
NUMBER TOWED                                           DISTANCE
 No more than three persons may be                       Towing may not occur within 150 ft of
 towed at one time.                                      a swim area, skin or scuba
                                                         diver’s flag, swimmer, watercraft, or
OBSERVER
                                                         dock or pier (except dock/pier where
 In addition to the watercraft operator,
                                                         operating from).
 an observer (not a rear-facing mirror) is
 required to continuously observe the                  EMPTY TOW
 person(s) being towed. The observer                    An unoccupied tow line may not be
 must be at least 12 years old and able                 dragged behind a watercraft for an
 to communicate with driver.                            unreasonable length of time.
HOURS                                                  TOWING IN CHANNELS
 Towing is prohibited from one-half                      No person shall tow or be towed
 hour after sunset until sunrise.                        into or through any marked channel
                                                         connecting two bodies of water. It is
LIFE JACKETS                                             unsafe.
  A person being towed must wear a life
  vest, belt, or other buoyant device. If
  the buoyant device is not U.S. Coast
  Guard-approved, a U.S. Coast Guard-
  approved life jacket must also be on                           SHARE THE LAKE
  board and readily available to the                      Wake in the Middle of the Bay
  person being towed.
                                                              Avoid Repetitive Passes
LENGTH OF TOW
  Maximum length of 85 ft (except with                         Keep the Sound Down
  written permission of the Sheriff ).

SAFETY TIPS FOR NONMOTORIZED WATERCRAFT
Whether operating in low light conditions, wakes, or areas with
powerboats, operators of nonmotorized watercraft should be
extra cautious and take precautions to make themselves VISIBLE             Light and Flag
to other lake users to prevent accidents.                                   Combination
                                                                          Improve Visibility
If you are kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, some ways to
become more visible include:
•     Wear vibrant clothing
•     Fly a flag
•     Install a light
•     Pay attention to lake conditions such as wakes, boat traffic,
      and weather
Powerboaters and larger boat operators should be aware of
their surroundings and take measures to LOOK FOR smaller boats
and nonmotorized watercraft on the lake. Avoid injuring other
lake users by being courteous, reducing wakes, and increasing
distance.

                                                7 15                                     lmcd.org
                                                                                          lmcd.org
Summer Rules 2022 - Lake Minnetonka Conservation District
Youth-Specific Regulations

          SM
                               YOUTH REGULATIONS
In addition to the minimum age requirements for Minnesota youth operators), State
regulations for Operator’s Permits are followed and vigorously enforced on Lake Min-
netonka. What’s more, lake-wide curfew regulations also apply.

Youth operators-- know the rules and keep your boating experience fun and safe!

    CURFEW
      Youth under the age of 15 may not be on a watercraft between the hours
      of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.—unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Those
      between the ages of 15 and 17 must be supervised by a parent or guardian
      while on watercraft between the hours of 12 a.m. (midnight) and 6 a.m.

    OPERATOR’S PERMIT
       See Minnesota Age Restrictions section
       for information about required Watercraft
       Operator’s Permits. Permits may be
       obtained by successfully completing
       an approved boating safety course—
       including the boater safety education
       course offered through the LMCD or one
       offered on-line by MN DNR.

 OPERATOR’S PERMIT & BOATING SAFETY COURSES

    LMCD BOATER SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM
     Funded through its Save the Lake Fund, the LMCD partners with the Hennepin
     County Sheriff’s Office Water Patrol and Mound Fire Department to offer the
     Boater Safety Education Program. Adults and youth (ages 12 to 17) work
     directly with presenters to obtain their MN DNR Watercraft Operator’s Permit
     in a single full-day session. Parents and guardians are encouraged to attend to
     enhance the training. Additional educational materials are being created for
     the website. Visit lmcd.org or call LMCD Office at 952-745-0789.

    BOAT MINNESOTA: MN DNR’S ON-LINE BOATING SAFETY COURSE
     The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources offers an on-line Minnesota
     Watercraft Operator’s Permit program for youth ages 12 to 17. Adults
     who want to learn more about boating safety or to enhance their current
     knowledge can also take the course. Some insurance companies offer
     premium discounts for such certification; check with your insurance company
     for participation and possible discounts. For more information visit the MN
     DNR site at mndnr.gov/boatingcourse.

Lake Minnetonka Summer Rules 2022                  8
Youth-Specific Regulation & PWCs

             STATE OF MINNESOTA AGE REGULATIONS
WATERCRAFT AGE MINIMUMS
  Operators less than 12 years of age: 25 hp or less—no restrictions; more than 25
  hp to 75hp must have someone at least 21 years of age on board and within reach of
  the controls; over 75 hp, cannot operate watercraft even with an adult on board
  Operators 12 to 17 years of age: 25 hp or less—no restrictions; over 25 hp, must
  have either a valid Watercraft Operator’s Permit or someone at least 21 years of age
  on board and within reach of the controls

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT (PWC)-SPECIFIC AGE MINIMUMS
  Operators less than 13 years of age: Cannot operate (even with an adult on board)
  Operators 13 years of age: Must have someone at least 21 years of age on board or
  have a valid Watercraft Operator’s Permit and be in visual supervision by someone at
  least 21 years of age
  Operators 14 to 17 years of age: Must have a valid Watercraft Operator’s Permit or
  someone on board who is 21 years of age

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT (PWC)
OPERATION & REGULATIONS

A personal watercraft (PWC) is a watercraft less than
14 feet in length that uses a motor powering a water
jet pump as its primary source of power, and is
designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing
or kneeling on, rather than the conventional manner
of sitting or standing inside the watercraft. This includes jet skis.
The regulations for motorboats apply, in addition to specific PWC requirements.
AUTOMATIC CUTOFF DEVICES
  If the machine is equipped by the manufacture with a lanyard-type engine cutoff
  switch, it must be attached to the person, life jacket or clothing of the operator
  when underway.
  ON LAKE MINNETONKA:
  Lanyard-type or wireless engine cutoff switch may not be altered, disabled or
  removed.
CARELESS OPERATION
  A PWC may not be operated in a manner that unreasonably or unnecessarily
  endangers life, limb, or property (including weaving through congested boat
  traffic).
  ON LAKE MINNETONKA:
  Includes swerving at the last moment to avoid a collision if you weren’t paying
  attention.

                                              9                                   lmcd.org
PWCs & Rentals

PWC CONT...
HOURS OF OPERATION
 9:30 am to one hour before sunset.
LIFE JACKETS
  Anyone operating or riding on a PWC must wear a
  U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket that is
  compatible with that activity. Check the label.
TOWING
  Operator must have an additional observer on board.
  ON LAKE MINNETONKA:
 The observer must be 12 years or older. See Towing
  section for more towing information.

SPEED
  PWC operators must travel at slow, no-wake speed (5 mph or
  less) within 150 ft of non-motorized boats, shore (unless launching
  or landing skiers directly to or from open water), docks, swim rafts,
  swimmers, or any moored or anchored boat.
  ON LAKE MINNETONKA:
  Speed limit also applies to proximity to persons fishing, docks, or other water
  structures. Further, speed limit of 5 mph or no more than minimum wake between 150
  ft and 300 ft of shoreline, unless PWC is being driven perpendicular to the shoreline,
  and to or from the nearest point of water 300 ft from the shoreline, or parallel to the
  shoreline from one location to another in non-repetitive manner.
WAKE JUMPING
 PWC operators may not jump wakes within 150 ft of another watercraft or PWC.
PROLONGED OPERATION
  ON LAKE MINNETONKA:
  PWC may not be operated more than 30 consecutive minutes in a single area (defined
  as a small area where noise emanating from the PWC may be a nuisance or cause
  substantial annoyance to one or more shoreline properties).
RENTAL REQUIREMENTS
  Businesses required to: 1) Distribute summary of laws free of charge (including
  instructions to laws and safety factors), 2) Provide required safety equipment, and 3)
  Ensure those less than 18 years of age show their Watercraft Operator’s Permit.
  ON LAKE MINNETONKA:
  A PWC may not be rented to anyone less than 16 years of age. Further, a Watercraft
  Operator’s Permit is required for all persons under 18 years of age.

The LMCD Code and links to applicable state laws can be found on the LMCD website.

  Lake Minnetonka Summer Rules 2022          10
General Safety Regulations

CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS SAVE LIVES
Sophia’s Law, named for a seven-year-old who died from carbon
monoxide (CO) poisoning while boating on Lake Minnetonka,
requires functioning marine-grade CO alarms on certain
motorboats. Minnesota is the first state in the nation to require
CO alarms in motorboats to prevent tragic accidents. To learn
more about CO alarms, stickers, and when they are required,
visit the MN DNR website:
dnr.state.mn.us/safety/boatwater.

BEWARE OF ESD
ELECTRIC SHOCK DROWNING

ESD results from paralysis caused by electrical currents in the water—by electricity leaking
into the water from faulty wiring of boats, docks, and lifts. ESD kills both humans and
animals. There are many ways to prevent ESD. The most important way to stay safe is to
never enter water around boats and docks using electrical power. For more information,
visit electricshockdrowning.org or links on the LMCD website. Also, learn about new
electrical code requirements (NFPA 70) for marinas, commercial and noncommercial
docking facilities, and residential docks.

                                                       FIRE PREVENTION & SAFETY
Safe Refueling
Before fueling make sure all passengers have exited the boat and all doors, ports, and
hatches are closed to prevent fumes from accumulating. Do not operate any electrical
switches, chargers, or other electrical items while refueling or before the fumes dissipate.
When you are done fueling, wipe up spilled fuel and be sure to operate the boat’s blowers
for several minutes to diffuse any lingering fumes. Learn more at https://lmcd.org/lake-
safety.

Regular Inspection & Maintenance
Many boat fires begin from electrical malfunctions. Regular inspection of engines for
damage and timely replacement of critical parts
could prevent a considerable amount of boat
fires. Check newly purchased boats thoroughly.

If Your Boat Catches Fire
If the size of the fire is beyond what a single
portable extinguisher can put out, evacuate
and call for professional firefighters. Your life is
infinitely more valuable than your boat.

                                                  11                              lmcd.org
Identifying Inland Waterway Markers/Buoys

            SM

KNOW YOUR MARKERS/BUOYS BEFORE YOU SET SAIL!
Comprehensive boating safety information, regulations and tips—including details on all
inland waterway markers—can be found on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’
website at mndnr.gov/boatingsafety. Inland markers are used to: help boaters safely
navigate channels; direct traffic; control speeds; protect resources; and identify dangerous
waterways/areas.

                  Minnesota    Waterway
                   Minnesota Inland WaterwayMarkers
                                            Markers

                   Channel lies between               Do not pass       Mid-Channel
                  green and red markers              between buoy        pass close
                                                       and shore        on either side

                                                                             M
                                                                             I
                                                                             L
                                                                             F
                                                                             O
                                                                             I
                                                                             L
                   Diver below                    Mooring                Milfoil Area
                 stay 150´ away                    Buoy                Boats Keep Out

                   Controlled           Danger        Boats Keep Out     Information
                     Area

                 Graphic source: mndnr.gov

                                             Life jackets save lives! Wear it!
                                             mndnr.gov/boatingsafety
                                                                                 2/14

  Lake Minnetonka Summer Rules 2022                 12
Waterway Navigation: “Rules of the Road”
            RULES
             RULESOF
            RULES  OFTHE
                  OF  THEROAD
                     THE  ROADFOR
                         ROAD  FORLAKE
                              FOR  LAKEMINNETONKA
                                  LAKE  MINNETONKA
                                       MINNETONKA
             RULES OF THE ROAD FOR LAKE MINNETONKA

1                                                                                    2
   1.WHEN
     1.WHEN
         WHEN  OVERTAKING
                 OVERTAKING-- --When
              OVERTAKING-        Whenovertak-
                                When  overtaking
                                         overtak-                                     2.2.APPROACHING-
                                                                                          APPROACHING
                                                                                           APPROACHING -- --When
                                                                                                             When     approaching
                                                                                                               Whenapproaching
                                                                                                                       approaching
   1.1. WHEN
         WHEN   OVERTAKING
                 OVERTAKING     When
                                 When overtak-
                                         overtak-                                     2.2.APPROACHING
                                                                                           APPROACHING       When
                                                                                                               When   approaching
                                                                                                                       approaching
       ing
         inganother
    another         vessel
               vessel, passpass
                             passwhen
                             when  safe.safe.                                             head-on
                                                                                           head-onor
                                                                                                   ornearly
                                                                                                      nearlyso,
                                                                                                              so,pass
                                                                                                                  passto
                                                                                                                       tothe
                                                                                                                          theright.
        ing
         ing another
            another
             another  vessel
                    vessel pass
                      vessel pass when
                                 when
                                  when   safe.
                                        safe.
                                         safe.                                            head-on
                                                                                          head-on
                                                                                           head-onor
                                                                                                  or
                                                                                                   ornearly
                                                                                                     nearly
                                                                                                      nearly so,
                                                                                                            so,
                                                                                                              so, pass
                                                                                                                 pass
                                                                                                                  pass to
                                                                                                                      to
                                                                                                                       to the
                                                                                                                         the
                                                                                                                          the  right.
                                                                                                                             right.
                                                                                                                               right.

Overtaking.
When              When
          watercraft
  Overtaking.       When   are  watercraft
                                    running the
                                   watercraft        are    running
                                                       aresamerunningin      in     When
                                                                                       Whenwatercraft
                                                                                                  watercraftare   areapproaching
                                                                                                                        approachingeach     eachother
                                                                                                                                                   other
 Overtaking.
  Overtaking.     When
                    When         watercraft
                                   watercraft         are
                                                       are  running
                                                              running      inin      When
                                                                                       When     watercraft
                                                                                                  watercraft     are
                                                                                                                  are approaching
                                                                                                                        approaching       each
                                                                                                                                            each  other
                                                                                                                                                   other
the
  thesame
        samedirection,
direction,     the   craft that
                 direction,       thethe iscraft
                                              craftwhich
                                             astern      mustisisis
                                                       which     isastern
                                                                     astern         head
                                                                                       headon,  on,or ornearly
                                                                                                           nearlyso, so,each
                                                                                                                          eachshallshallturn
                                                                                                                                           turnto tothe
                                                                                                                                                      the
 the
  the same
        same   direction,
                 direction,        the
                                     the    craft
                                              craft  which
                                                       which       astern
                                                                     astern          head
                                                                                       head   on,
                                                                                                on, oror  nearly
                                                                                                           nearly   so,
                                                                                                                     so, each
                                                                                                                          each   shall
                                                                                                                                   shall turn
                                                                                                                                           turn totothe
                                                                                                                                                      the
shall
  shallpass
pass     passonly
       only     onlywhen
              when      there
                       when       there       isissufficient
                                      is sufficient
                                     there                      distance
                                                           distance
                                                    sufficient    distance          right
                                                                                       rightaaaasufficient
                                                                                       When       sufficientdistance
                                                                                                 watercraft                sosothat
                                                                                                                  are approaching
                                                                                                                distance         thatthey    will
                                                                                                                                              willsafe-
                                                                                                                                           each
                                                                                                                                        they        safe-
shall
  shallpass
         pass only
                only when
                       when       there
                                     there     isissufficient
                                                    sufficient  distance
                                                                 distance            right
                                                                                       right     sufficient
                                                                                                  sufficient   distance
                                                                                                                distance   sosothat
                                                                                                                                 that they
                                                                                                                                        they will
                                                                                                                                              will safe-
                                                                                                                                                    safe-
between
between
  between    the
              the
               the craft
                   craft
                      craft    sosoit
                               so    it it
                                         can
                                        can can  dodo so
                                                     do soso safely
                                                          safely      and
                                                                    and
                                                               safely   and         lyother
                                                                                         pass.
                                                                                       lypass.    When
                                                                                                head-on,
                                                                                           pass.WhenWhenthe  the
                                                                                                               or  course
                                                                                                                   nearly
                                                                                                               thecourse     of
                                                                                                                             so,
                                                                                                                     courseofof   an
                                                                                                                                  each
                                                                                                                                ofan   approaching
                                                                                                                                          must
                                                                                                                                    anapproaching turn
                                                                                                                                         approaching
between
  between    the    craft
               thespeed        so
                      craft that      it  can
                                 so ititscan        do  so
                                                     do or   safely
                                                               safelyand
                                                          so wake       and          lyly  pass.    When       the   course         an   approaching
only
only
  only
only
       at
       at
       atatsuch
           such
            such
           such   speed
                     speed
                   speed        that
                                   that
                                 that     itsits
                                           its
                                                 wash
                                                wash
                                                   wash
                                                  wash   or
                                                          or wake
                                                            or  wake
                                                               wake
                                                                       will
                                                                      will
                                                                         will
                                                                       will            to
                                                                                    craft  the
                                                                                       craft
                                                                                     craft       right
                                                                                            isisso
                                                                                             isisso   farato
                                                                                                  sofar
                                                                                                     far  tosufficient
                                                                                                            tothe
                                                                                                                theright
                                                                                                               the        distance
                                                                                                                      right
                                                                                                                    right
                                                                                                                            asasnot
                                                                                                                            asasnot   toso
                                                                                                                                  notto tobethat
                                                                                                                                            beconsid-
                                                                                                                                           be   consid-
                                                                                                                                              consid-
  onlyendanger
not      at such speedthe          that being
                                craft        its wash       or wake
                                                       passed       or   will          craft
                                                                                       they   willso  far
                                                                                                    safely  to  the
                                                                                                               pass.  right
                                                                                                                      When        not
                                                                                                                                the     to
                                                                                                                                      coursebe  consid-
                                                                                                                                               of   an
not
  notendanger
not
  not    endangerthe
       endanger
         endanger       thecraft
                       the
                        the        craft
                                 craft
                                   craft
                                         being being
                                            being
                                               being
                                                     passed
                                                          passed
                                                        passed
                                                          passed
                                                                or ororits
                                                                    its
                                                                     or     its
                                                                          its
                                                                            its
                                                                                    ered
                                                                                       ered
                                                                                     ered
                                                                                       ered
                                                                                            as
                                                                                             asas meeting
                                                                                                   meeting
                                                                                                  meeting
                                                                                               as meeting
                                                                                                               head
                                                                                                                 head
                                                                                                                head
                                                                                                                 head
                                                                                                                       on,
                                                                                                                         on,
                                                                                                                        on,
                                                                                                                         on,
                                                                                                                             each
                                                                                                                               each
                                                                                                                             each
                                                                                                                               each
                                                                                                                                     shall
                                                                                                                                       shall
                                                                                                                                     shall
                                                                                                                                       shall
                                                                                                                                             maintain
                                                                                                                                              maintain
                                                                                                                                             maintain
                                                                                                                                              maintain
occupants.
occupants.
  occupants.No  No     person
                  Noperson
                        personoperating operating         a  watercraft
                                          operatingaaawatercraft
                                                               watercraft           itsapproaching
                                                                                         course
                                                                                       its course   and
                                                                                                      and   craft
                                                                                                           pass
                                                                                                              pass is so
                                                                                                                  clear.
                                                                                                                    clear.far  to  the   right  as  not
occupants.
  occupants.     No
                  No   person
                        person          operating
                                          operating           watercraft
                                                               watercraft            its  course
                                                                                       its be
                                                                                           course   and    pass    clear.
                                                                                                      and passasclear.
may
  shallabruptly
shall     abruptlychange
       abruptly      change
                       changeits         itscourse
                                       its      coursewithout
                                             course        withoutfirst
                                                         without      first
                                                                         first         to       considered            meeting head-on, each
shall
  shall abruptly
          abruptly   change
                       change            its  course
                                                course    without
                                                           without     first
determining
determining
  determiningthat
determining        that
                    thatitititit
                  that           can
                             itcan
                                 canbe
                                can      be
                                        be       done
                                          besafely
                                               safely    safely
                                                 safelydone
                                                        done       andfirst
                                                          donewithout
                                                                  without
                                                                 without
                                                                                     must maintain its course and pass clear.
                                                                                    InInnearly
                                                                                          nearlyhead-on
                                                                                     InInnearly   head-onmeeting
                                                                                                 head-on   meetingsituation,
                                                                                                          meeting    situation,both
                                                                                                                    situation,  bothves-
                                                                                                                               both   ves-
                                                                                                                                     ves-
  determining
without
risk                that
            risk of with
                      collision. can      be     safely   done    without                 nearly  head-on  meeting   situation, both  ves-
  riskof
 risk  ofcollision
      ofof collision
          collision     withanother
                      with          anotherwatercraft.
                                  another            watercraft.
                                                   watercraft.
                                                                                    sels
                                                                                       selsmust
                                                                                     sels    mustgive
                                                                                            must   giveway
                                                                                                  give  wayto
                                                                                                       way   tostarboard,
                                                                                                            to   starboard,neither
                                                                                                               starboard,     neitherhas
                                                                                                                             neither  has
                                                                                                                                     has
  risk     collision    with        another          watercraft.                    theIn a
                                                                                       sels  nearly
                                                                                             must   head-on
                                                                                                   give way  meeting
                                                                                                             to         situation,
                                                                                                                 starboard,        both
                                                                                                                              neither has
                                                                                       theright-of-way.
                                                                                     the    right-of-way.
                                                                                           right-of-way.
                                                                                       vessels
                                                                                       the      must give way to starboard; neither
                                                                                            right-of-way.
Although
Although
  Althoughthe
                the  smaller
                 thesmaller
                               craft
                      smallercraft
                                      has
                                crafthas
                                           moved
                                       hasmoved
                                            movedup
                                                    up
                                                    upintointo
Although
into
  Although     the
                 thesmaller
        the overtaken         craft
                           vessel’s
                      smaller   crafthas  moved
                                     “danger
                                      has          up
                                                zone”,
                                            moved   up  into
                                                        the
                                                          into                       has the right-of-way.
the
  theovertaken
         overtakenvessel’s
                      vessel’s“danger
                                “dangerzone”,
                                           zone”,the
                                                   therela-
                                                         rela-
the
  the overtaken
relative overtaken   vessel’s
             right-of-way
                      vessel’s“danger
                             has   not
                                “danger   zone”,
                                        changed.
                                           zone”, the
                                                    She
                                                   the rela-
                                                           is
                                                         rela-
tive   right-of-way
  tiveburdened
         right-of-way    has
                          has not
                                notchanged
                                     changed   and   she
                                                      sheisisis
                                                 andshe       is
tive
still
  tive  right-of-way
         right-of-wayandhas
                          has not
                           must not changed
                                  make     any
                                     changed    and
                                               necessary
                                                 and  she
still burdened
  still  burdened    and
                       and must
                             must  make
                                     make  any
                                             anynecessary
                                                  necessary
still
course burdened
  still burdened      and
            and/orspeed
                      speedmust    make
                              changes
                       and changes
                             must    make   any
                                          topass necessary
                                             passsafely.
                                             any   safely.
                                                  necessary
course     and/or
  courseand/or
             and/orspeed
                       speedchanges     to
                              changestoto topass
                                              passsafely.
                                                   safely.
course
  course     and/or    speed  changes         pass safely.

3    CROSSING-
   3.3.
      CROSSING
   3.3.CROSSING
     vessel
      the
        the
       the
            on your
        CROSSING
           vessel
            vessel
           vessel
                   When crossing,
        CROSSING-- --When
                  on
                   on
                  on
                       Whencrossing,
                      When
                     right.
                       When
                     your
                      your
                     your
                                      yield to to
                               crossing,yield
                              crossing,
                               crossing,
                          right.
                            right.
                          right.
        the vessel on your right.
                                          yield
                                               the
                                          yield toto
                                         yield    to
                                                                                     44.4.SAILBOATS-
                                                                                          SAILBOATS
                                                                                      4.4.when
                                                                                           SAILBOATS
                                                                                            SAILBOATS
                                                                                          when
                                                                                            when
                                                                                           when
                                                                                                they
                                                                                                they
                                                                                                  they
                                                                                                 they
                                                                                                      are
                                                                                                       are
                                                                                                      are
                                                                                                          Yield to
                                                                                            SAILBOATS-- --Yield
                                                                                                           Yield
                                                                                                                to sailboats,
                                                                                                                   tosailboats
                                                                                                           Yield toto
                                                                                                      areYield
                                                                                                           overtaking.
                                                                                                           overtaking. sailboats
                                                                                                             overtaking.
                                                                                                           overtaking.
                                                                                            when they are overtaking.
                                                                                                                                 except
                                                                                                                       sailboatsexcept
                                                                                                                      sailboats   except
                                                                                                                                 except
                                                                                                                                  except

When watercraft are crossing courses, or
  Whenwatercraft
           watercraft      are    crossing      courses,      or                    Sailboats
                                                                                     Sailboatsunder
                                                                                                 undersail
                                                                                                         sailalone
                                                                                                               aloneshall
                                                                                                                      shallhave
                                                                                                                             haveright-of-
                                                                                                                                   right-of-
 When
When
  When   watercraft
           watercraft  areare    crossing
                            crossing
                           are    crossing    courses,
                                          paths,  orat right
                                                courses,     oror                   Sailboats
                                                                                     Sailboatsunder
                                                                                                 under sail
                                                                                                         sailalone
                                                                                                              alone shall
                                                                                                                      shallhave
                                                                                                                             have right-of-
                                                                                                                                   right-of-
approaching
  approachingeach
 approaching      each
                         other
                    eachother
                          other
                                  obliquely
                           otherobliquely
                                    obliquelyor
                                  obliquely
                                                ororat
                                                oror  atright
                                                     atat  right                     Sailboats
                                                                                    way
                                                                                     way
                                                                                    way
                                                                                         over
                                                                                          over
                                                                                         over
                                                                                              allunder
                                                                                                  other
                                                                                                all
                                                                                              all       sail
                                                                                                    other
                                                                                                  other       alone
                                                                                                         watercraft
                                                                                                           watercraft
                                                                                                          watercraft have   the
                                                                                                                       underway
                                                                                                                        underway
                                                                                                                       underway right-
                                                                                                                                    except
                                                                                                                                     except
                                                                                                                                    except
approaching
  approaching
angles,   so   as each
                    each
                   to      other
                       involve      obliquely
                                  risk   of  collision,    right
                                                           the                       way over
                                                                                     of-way
                                                                                    when       all all
                                                                                             over
                                                                                          overtakingother  watercraft
                                                                                                       other
                                                                                                        such            underway
                                                                                                                watercraft
                                                                                                                other                except
                                                                                                                             underway,
                                                                                                                      watercraft.
  angles,
 angles,
right     sosoasat
       angles
  angles,   so   asto
                 as  toinvolve
                    the
                     to  involve
                         risk  of on
                         involve    riskofof
                                   risk    ofcollision,
                                  collision,
                                    risk      collision,
                                               the   craft
                                              collision,     the
                                                            the
                                                             the                     when
                                                                                    when    overtaking
                                                                                           overtaking
                                                                                     when overtaking      such
                                                                                                        such     other
                                                                                                                other
                                                                                                          such other    watercraft.
                                                                                                                       watercraft.
                                                                                                                        watercraft.
craft
  craftwhich
        which  has
                 hasthe
                      the other
                           other    onits  own
                                         its     right
                                             ownyield    shall
                                                   righttheshall                     except  when overtaking        other   watercraft.
that
 crafthas
  craft
yield
           the
       which
        which
       the
                other
                has
                 has theon
                      the
            right-of-way.
                             its right
                          other
                           other  onon itsmust
                                         itsown
                                             own right
                                                   right  shall
                                                           shall                    InInany
  yieldthe
        theright-of-way.
right-of-way.
 yield        right-of-way.                                                               anyencounter
                                                                                     InInany   encounterbetween
                                                                                             encounter       betweenaaaasailing
                                                                                                            between         sailingvessel
                                                                                                                                     vesseland
                                                                                                                                             and
  yield the   right-of-way.                                                         aAny  any  encounter
                                                                                            sailboat
                                                                                         power-driven under  between
                                                                                                               power
                                                                                                           vessel,  the ofsailing
                                                                                                                            sailing
                                                                                                                             aformer
                                                                                                                               motor
                                                                                                                           former
                                                                                                                                    vessel
                                                                                                                                     vesseland
                                                                                                                                       (with
                                                                                                                                      has    and
                                                                                                                                       has the
                                                                                                                                              or
                                                                                     aaa power-driven
                                                                                          power-driven
                                                                                          power-driven      vessel,
                                                                                                           vessel,
                                                                                                            vessel,   the
                                                                                                                    the
                                                                                                                      the   former
                                                                                                                              former  has
                                                                                                                                       has   the
                                                                                                                                            the
                                                                                                                                             the
InIn anan encounter        between                                                    without    sails) is considered    a   power-driven
In
 InInananencounter
        an    encounter
            encounter
              encounter between    twothe
                             between
                            between
                             between    the
                                       the
                                        the
                                            two
                                        vessels
                                             two
                                              two
                                                   vessels
                                              twowhere
                                                     vessels
                                                   vessels
                                                     vessels
                                                                                    right-of-way
                                                                                       right-of-way
                                                                                     right-of-way
                                                                                      vessel
                                                                                       right-of-way
                                                                                                     unless
                                                                                                       unless
                                                                                                     unless
                                                                                              and must unless
                                                                                                              she
                                                                                                               she
                                                                                                              she
                                                                                                            obey
                                                                                                                   should
                                                                                                                     should
                                                                                                                   should
                                                                                                               shethe  samebe
                                                                                                                     should
                                                                                                                               bebeovertaking
                                                                                                                                     overtaking
                                                                                                                                   overtaking
                                                                                                                                 rules
                                                                                                                                 be    as other
                                                                                                                                     overtaking
where
onewhere  one
        has  thehas
            one       the
                       theright-of-way
                   right-of-way
                   has                   over
                                  over the
                            right-of-way       the
                                                 theother,
                                             other,
                                           over       other,                        thetheother.
                                                                                           other.
 where
   where  one
            one  has
                   hasthe
                       the right-of-way
                            right-of-way over
                                           over the
                                                 theother,
                                                      other,                         the
                                                                                       theother.
                                                                                      power-driven
                                                                                           other.        watercraft.
both
both     have
   bothhave      responsibilities,
          haveresponsibilities.     not
                   responsibilities,Not  only
                                      notonly   must
                                           onlymust    the
                                                  mustthe the
 both
   both  have
          have   responsibilities,
                   responsibilities,not
                                      notonly
                                           only  must
                                                  must  the
                                                          the
burdened
   burdenedvessels
burdened          vesselsgive
                vessels    giveway;
                          give  way;the
                                way,  theprivileged
                                     the   privilegedves-
                                          privileged     ves-
 burdened
   burdened     vessels
                  vesselsgive
                           giveway;
                                way; the
                                      the privileged
                                           privileged  ves-
                                                        ves-
sel
vesselhas
   selhas the
          has
        hasthe  duty
               the
             theduty   of
                      dutymaintaining
                   dutyofof of           her
                               maintaining
                         ofmaintaining
                            maintainingher    course
                                              its      and
                                                  course
                                           hercourse
                                                courseandand
 sel
   sel  has  the   duty     maintaining    her  course   and
speed.
and     speed.
   speed.
 speed.
  speed.

                                                                              13 10
                                                                           Page
                                                                            Page||||10
                                                                                                                                                 lmcd.org
                                                                           Page
                                                                            Page    10
                                                                                     10
Other Safety, Courtesy, & Nuisances

               COMMON STATE & LAKE MINNETONKA REGULATIONS
          SM

SAFETY
LIFE JACKETS
  Readily accessible and wearable approved life jacket for each person must be
  on board a boat, paddleboard, and other watercraft. Some inflatable life jackets
  (automatic or manual) are not considered valid PFDs unless being worn. All children
  under the age of 10 years are required to wear life jackets while watercraft are
  underway. One Type IV throwable is required on boats 16 ft or longer (except
  canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards) and must be immediately available. All PWC
  operators and passengers must wear life jackets.

RIDING ON GUNWALES OR DECKING
  It is illegal to ride or sit on, or operate a motorboat while someone is riding or sitting
  on the gunwale, bow, transom, decking over the bow, side or stern while underway
  (unless it is equipped with an adequate railing).

SAFETY EQUIPMENT
  Fire extinguishers, horns, marine-grade carbon monoxide detectors (for specified
  watercraft), and lighting must be in compliance with State law.

UNDER THE INFLUENCE
 “Little Alan’s Law” went into effect Aug. 1, 2018. Drivers convicted of DWI will face
 additional consequences such as criminal penalties, civil litigation, and other liabilities
 regardless of the type of vehicle they were driving at the time. Boating while under
 the influence of alcohol, or any other controlled or illegal substance, is illegal. The
 Minnesota alcohol concentration level for impaired operation is 0.08. Designate a
 captain for safety. Underage drinking is also strictly enforced. Watercraft owners or
 operators may be held liable for violations.

WASH AND WAKE
 It is a violation to operate a watercraft in a manner that its wash and wake will
 endanger, harass, or unnecessarily interfere with any person or property.

                                                CHANNELS & NAVIGATION
                                                No person may interfere or block
                                                navigation of watercraft, moor, or
                                                 otherwise create safety hazards in
                                                 channels or public passageways.
                                                 Swimming, jumping from bridges, or
                                                 overtaking boats in channels is also
                                                  prohibited.

Lake Minnetonka Summer Rules 2022                   14
Other Safety, Courtesy, & Nuisances

                                      COMMON REGULATIONS CONTINUED...

NUISANCES & SAFETY                                                   PLEASE BE
SHARE THE LAKE SAFELY & RESPONSIBLY SO EVERYONE                     COURTEOUS
CAN ENJOY THE LAKE
                                                                               !
                                                               Many residents
                                                                               live on Lake
PUBLIC NUISANCES                                                 Minnetonka. W
                                                                                 hen you
  No person may commit or engage in any activity that          recreate on or
                                                                              around the
  constitutes a public nuisance—including excess noise,      Lake, you are ha
                                                                             ving fun near
  inappropriate behavior, indecent exposure, etc.                someone’s back
                                                                                  yard!
LITTERING
  Littering on Lake Minnetonka is illegal. Carry out what
  you carry in. Please be kind and remove any litter you
  notice. Help prevent hazards to people and animals.
PLAN AHEAD FOR SANITATION
  If bathroom facilities are not available on the
  watercraft, find a location with public facilities.
  Find a list of Lake Minnetonka amenities at lmcd.org.
EQUIPMENT NOISE
  All watercraft motors must have a muffler, underwater exhaust, or other device that
  suppresses the sound of the motor to levels
  consistent with State law.
NOISE & QUIET HOURS
 Please keep the sound down, whether from music, yelling, or other actions. It may
 also protect your hearing. Sound travels easily across the lake. Noise must not
 unreasonably disturb the peace, quiet or comfort of anyone nearby. Between 10 p.m.
 and 7 a.m. sound from any device plainly audible at a distance of 150 feet is a violation
 of LMCD Code.

RESTRICTED ACCESS TO DOCKS & SHORELAND
  Lake Minnetonka has several public accesses, commercial marinas, and transient
  docks for use by the general public. However, some multiple dock facilities are
  intended for the exclusive use of their tenants. Further, other docks and shoreland are
  private property with restricted access. Please respect nonpublic docks and do not
  trespass.

LIGHTING
  All watercraft must display the proper navigation lights when underway or in use
  between sunset and sunrise.

WAKES
 Visit Own Your Wake to learn about wake safety and the importance of watching your
 wake regardless the type of watercraft, e.g. large cruisers, wake boats, etc. Learn wake
 surfing tips from experts by visiting links on lmcd.org
The LMCD Code and links to applicable state laws can be found on the LMCD website.

                                             15                                   lmcd.org
Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers!

             SM

                                STOP AQUATIC HITCHHIKERS! IT’S THE LAW.
Lake Minnetonka currently has identified five Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) in its waters—the
zebra mussel, Eurasian watermilfoil, curly-leaf pondweed, flowering rush and purple loosestrife.
Help keep other AIS out of Lake Minnetonka by taking the following steps.

CLEAN
Clean visible aquatic plants, zebra mussels and/or other prohibited invasive species off all water-
craft, trailers, and water-related equipment before leaving a water access or shoreland property.
It is illegal to transport aquatic plants, zebra mussels or other prohibited species—dead or
alive.

  SPRAY
  Use a high-pressure washer to spray down your watercraft and equipment.
  RINSE
  Rinse with very hot water whenever possible—using water at 120º F for at least two
  minutes (or 140º F for at least 10 seconds) kills zebra mussels and some other AIS.

DRAIN
Drain water-related equipment (boat, trailer, ballast tanks, portable bait containers, motor)
and drain bilge, livewell and baitwell by removing drain plugs before leaving a water access or
shoreline property. Keep drain plugs out and water-draining devices open while transport-
ing watercraft. It is illegal to transport a watercraft or water-related equipment without draining
water.

DRY
  Allow your watercraft or equipment to dry for at least five days whenever possible.
  RUN THE MOTOR
  Discharge all water by running your motor (or personal watercraft) for a few seconds
  before leaving a water access.

DISPOSE
Be prepared! Transport your catch in a cooler. Dispose of unwanted bait—including minnows,
leeches, worms, and fish parts in the trash. If you want to keep live bait, drain bait containers
and refill with bottled or purified tap water. It is illegal to release bait into the water or re-
lease worms onto the ground.

     Curly-leaf pondweed,    Zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha    Eurasian Watermilfoil,
    Potamogeton crispus                                            Myriophyllum spicatuml

  Lake Minnetonka Summer Rules 2022              16
Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers!

YOU CAN DO EVEN MORE TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF AIS

                                                      BE AN AIS SLEUTH
                                                      Since Lake Minnetonka is a regional and
                                                      national recreation destination, the risk
                                                      of exposure to a variety of AIS threats is
Be on the lookout for Starry stonewort, spiny         high. AIS damage the ecology of the lake,
waterflea and other aquatic invasive species          enjoyment of recreation, economics of the
threats. Visit lmcd.org or StopSpiny.org for          area, and is a significant financial burden to
more information.                                     manage.

                                                      Learn about AIS management on Lake
                                                      Minnetonka and report any suspicious
                                                      aquatic vegetation or animals at lmcd.org
                                                      or call 952-745-0789.

                                                      AIS Detector Opportunities
                                                      If you would like to connect your love of
                                                      lakes with meaningful ways to protect
                                                      them, consider AIS Detectors training
                                                      sponsored by the University of Minnesota
                                                      Minnesota Aquataic Invasive Species
                                                      Research Center (MAISRC) . For more
                                                      information, visit maisrc.umn.edu/ais-
                                                      detectors or contact the LMCD.

KNOW THE LAW!

 YOU MAY NOT...
     •   Transport watercraft without removing the drain plug
     •   Arrive at a lake access with a drain plug in place
     •   Transport aquatic plants, or prohibited invasive species. Learn more at mndnr.gov
     •   Launch a watercraft with prohibited species attached
     •   Transport water from Minnesota lakes or rivers; or release bait into water.

 There are many regulated species—such as spiny
 waterfleas, faucet snails, ruffe round goby, rusty crayfish,
 and mystery snails—that cannot be released into
 another body of water.

 What’s more, docks, structures, and boatlifts must
 be dried for 21 days before placing in another
 body of water. Violating these regulations may
 result in fines up to $1,000.

                                                 17
                                                 17                                       lmcd.org
                                                                                           lmcd.org
LAKE MINNETONKA RESOURCES & LINKS

                                    Lake Minnetonka Conservation District (LMCD)
                                    5341 Maywood Road, Suite 200
                             SM
                                    Mound, MN 55364
                                    Office: 952-745-0789
                                    Email: lmcd@lmcd.org Website: lmcd.org
                                    Connect with us at:       /LakeMinnetonkaConservationDistrict
                                                              @LakeMtkaCD
                                      •   Licensing and surface regulations
                                      •   Docks, structures, and watercraft storage
                                      •   Public navigation harvesting program
                                      •   Boater safety course
                                      •   Solar lights program
                                      •   Some services funded by SAVE the LAKE Fund contributions

                                    Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO)
                                    Water Patrol Unit
                                    4141 Shoreline Drive
                                    Spring Park, MN 55384
                                    EMERGENCY or Officer Assistance: Call 911
                                    Non-Emergency 24/7: 952-258-5321 Office: 612-596-9880
                                    Website: HennepinSheriff.org/water-patrol
                                      • Patrol and enforcement of State and LMCD laws on Lake
                                        Minnetonka
                                      • Emergency and rescue operations
                                      • Special events

MINNESOTA
Boating Guide 2022                  Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR)
                                    Conservation Officers
                                    500 Lafayette Road
                                    St. Paul, MN 55155
                                    DNR Information Center: 651-296-6157 or
                                                            888-MINNDNR (646-6367)
                                    Officer Locator: mndnr.gov/officerpatrolareas
                                    Website: mndnr.gov
Life jackets save lives. Wear it!
                                      • Boating and fishing regulations and enforcement
                                      • AIS prevention and management

                                                                          Form 05052022 WP
You can also read